My pitch to the people near me who have no connection to the auto industry is that an electric Ranger (90's style) would have been a huge hit. I get the feeling that the Lightning came about because Ford managers don't really know how to make vehicles that regular people want.

Funny thing is that Ford made an electric 90’s Ranger. Sold only in Mexico IIRC. Internally it was referred to as the Ranger Glider.

They were sold in California as well.

A fully-electric Maverick?

That new Slate pickup looks pretty cool.

I have never owned a truck or a new car and I might buy one if they can truly keep the slate under 20knincluding delivery and all taxes and fees.

IIRC the 20k number depended on the 7k federal rebate that recently expired, so it will probably be more like 27k

F-150 Lightning was supposed to start at $39,974 and ended up at $54,780. I'll be surprised to see Slate actually happening under $30k. Having lost the $7,500 rebate, more like $35k.

USA seemingly can't sell small or base trim cars.

A fun-sized six speed pickup with a turbo four banger? Sign me up.